July 4

New Songs

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 144:9-15 | 2 Kings 23:31-25:30 | Acts 22:17-23:10 | Proverbs 18:13

Today’s Scripture Focus: Psalm 144:9-15

I will sing a new song to you, my God; on the ten-stringed lyre I will make music to you (Psalm 144:9 NIV).

What is your favorite hymn or worship song? Is it a new song or an old song? Why is it special to you?

I have often asked questions like this to people. It is good to hear the stories behind the songs that have taken on special meaning to people. One of the things I have found is that every favorite song is attached to a memory or experience. Sometimes it is the memory of an experience that was instrumental in your spiritual journey. Sometimes it reminds you of people who have been influential in your life of faith. Sometimes it triggers thoughts about ways that you’ve experienced God in worship or prayer.

It is good to cherish those memories and experiences and the songs that go with them. Yet it also points us to the reason why we also need “new songs.” We can’t rely only on past experiences. We need dynamic, fresh experiences with God in our walk of faith; new experiences that will be tied to new songs. If our faith is to grow, there must be new experiences; there must be new songs.

There is nothing wrong with old songs—I grew up with hymns and continue to find great spiritual nourishment through them. Yet, like the psalmist, we should look for the ongoing work of God in our lives that will produce new songs. As we grow in faith, may new songs also spring up in our heart. So take up your instrument and sing. Old songs; new songs; sing them both with passion and joy. We serve a great God and he is worthy of our praise!

Heavenly Father, thank you for music, creativity, and variety.  Thank you for old songs that bring back good memories and new songs that celebrate the fresh things you are doing in my life. May my heart be filled with praise at all times. Amen.